What’s more tasking than googling Google? Research, which is in a sense googling Google is. Everyone’s dealt with research in one form or another. Whether you’re studying genetics or slapping “Italy” into some search bar for your third-grade poster, we’ve all faced it. Now researching means sitting in front of a computer sorting through links in Google instead of books like my parents did in school. Both of which can be dry. But, researching can be a whole lot more interesting if you keep a few key points in mind:

1. Dive into your interests.

I don’t care what you have to nosedive into and usually, no one else will either. Maybe you’re really into skydiving, or you’re really into No. 2 pencils. If you’re writing a paper so long as it’s relevant, reasonably interesting, and grammatically correct (or as close as you can come), then you’ll get the mark. Writing anything is always better when you’re interested, and you’d be surprised by the connections you can make when you put on your thinking caps. Get a little passionate- even if it’s all about the No. 2 pencil (I won’t judge, promise).

2. Put down the books and turn off the screens.

Go outside and meet some people, especially if you’re looking for some inspiration. I’m not saying get in the white van or take the candy; just that other people are full of exciting things you’ve never even thought of. Real life experience is valuable- just like an interview. People are the source of all information. We do the research. We make the discoveries (even if we don’t always get the credit). Digging into something is worth it, and you might also find a new passion along the way.

3. Dear God, triple check your sources.

Don’t believe everything you read on the internet (or hear from the mysterious “Well, they say” I promise, it’s necessary.) People aren’t reliable narrators. You have to think critically about what people say because there are always at least two sides to a story. Make sure the information you’re getting is citable- or quotable. Don’t let people tell you what to think. Be your own person and question things.

Just remember, when googling Google, you could get some bias information. You’re asking Google about itself after all (and breaking the internet). Think critically, and maybe Bing Google?

Katelin is a writer with a passion for historical fiction and hockey. Born and raised in Ottawa, Ontario she can often be found riding the O-Train with a Pepsi, at least one copy of Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray, and a developing character in the empty seat across from her.

Katelin is a writer with a passion for historical fiction and hockey. Born and raised in Ottawa, Ontario she can often be found riding the O-Train with a Pepsi, at least one copy of Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray, and a developing character in the empty seat across from her.

SPINE ONLINE

Algonquin’s School of Media and Design offers a two-year program in Professional Writing, designed for people who have an aptitude and passion for writing and a willingness to practise their craft in a variety of media. This is the online portion of that media training. Graduates will possess exemplary writing skills for both print media and electronic platforms, and this is their practice ground.